Ascension Sacred Heart is set to expand access to emergency medical services with the construction of a new freestanding emergency room in the Perdido Key area of southwest Escambia County.

Located off Sorrento Road, the facility is expected to be completed by summer 2025.

The 11,000-square-foot ER will feature a triage area, resuscitation room, nine treatment spaces and advanced CT and X-ray technology. According to a news release, more than 40 associates will staff the facility, which aims to provide timely and quality care to the growing community.

"This addition ensures those who live in southwest Escambia County get the timely and quality health care they need," Sacred Heart Pensacola President and CEO Will Condon said in the release. "With our community growing, it is up to us to meet their medical needs and grow with them."

Sacred Heart has served the Perdido Key community for over 35 years, opening its first health center in the area in 2017. That facility offers a range of services, including rehabilitation, imaging, primary care, lab testing and specialty care.

Michael Shaw, Ascension Florida's chief strategy officer, highlighted the strategic importance of freestanding ERs in meeting the region's needs.

"Northwest Florida is growing rapidly, and Sacred Heart is constantly exploring ways to meet the needs of our changing community," Shaw said. "Our freestanding ERs are supported by award-winning care available at Sacred Heart Pensacola and will give all those in this area who require emergency care added peace of mind."

This facility will join Sacred Heart's two existing freestanding ERs in Navarre and Nine Mile Road, highlighting the organization's commitment to addressing the health care needs of Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. The new ER will also be supported by the award-winning services at Ascension Sacred Heart Pensacola, including the region's only Level I Trauma Center and the Studer Family Children's Hospital.